1. Learning Objectives:

Understand and be able to correctly use terminology specific to respiratory system disease.

Understand how auscultable lung sounds are generated, be able to describe abnormal lung sounds and understand their clinical significance.

Understand indications for specialized diagnostic procedures used in respiratory system (imaging, endoscopy, transtracheal aspiration, bronchoalveolar lavage,and thoracocentesis) and what kinds of information can be obtained from each.

2. Signalment (Age, Breed, Sex)

3. History

3.1. Basic facts

Environment and use

Diet

Immunization status and parasite control

3.2. Potential for infectious disease or parasite exposure

Other individuals of the same species on the premises, number and health status

Other species on the premises, numbers and health status

Recent travel

3.3. Previous and concurrent illness

Course, therapy and response

Medication being administered at present

3.4. Presenting Complaint

Onset: sudden vs. gradual; time of year

Duration and progression

Treatment and response to date

4. Complaints Suggestive of Respiratory Disease

4.1. Cough: a forced expiratory effort to clear airways

Indicates impairment of mucociliary clearance or excessive production of secretions